Kochi: The Motor Vehicle Department (MVD) has launched a stringent drive to curb the rising menace of underage driving across Kerala, declaring that violators will face tough action under the newly intensified “No Key for Kids” campaign.
The move comes in the wake of a tragic incident in Kasaragod, where a 16-year-old behind the wheel caused the death of an auto-rickshaw driver. The episode has brought renewed urgency to enforce laws and prevent minors from accessing vehicles, a practice authorities warn is both illegal and life-threatening.
The MVD’s Enforcement Division will spearhead statewide inspections, with a particular focus on school premises, tuition centres, and other public gathering spots. Officials said that the first step will be to sensitize offenders and their families. If a minor is caught driving, both the child and parents will have to attend special awareness sessions.
However, repeat violations will draw heavy penalties. Parents or vehicle owners who allow children to drive face fines of up to ₹25,000, possible imprisonment of one year, cancellation of the vehicle’s registration, and charges under the Juvenile Justice Act. For the minors themselves, a fine of ₹10,000 will be imposed for driving without a license.
While enforcement remains central, the MVD has emphasized the campaign’s educational side. Social media platforms will be used to spread the message that underage driving is not just a mistake but a punishable crime. In addition, an online opinion survey will be launched to gather public input on stricter measures against parents and others who hand over vehicles to children.
Special awareness classes, both offline and online, are being designed to instill road discipline among teenagers and remind parents of their responsibility. Officials pointed out that many accidents involving minors are preventable if guardians strictly enforce rules at home.
Authorities underscored that the crackdown is not only about punishment but about preventing tragedies. “A vehicle in the hands of an untrained child is a weapon on the road. Parents must understand the gravity of allowing their children behind the wheel,” an official remarked.
With this campaign, the MVD is making it clear that underage driving will no longer be dismissed as youthful mischief but treated as a serious offence with far-reaching consequences.